Now Hiring: Sales Associate

Position Overview

Blue Dream is seeking a Sales Associate for our vintage clothing store located in the LGD. Since 2011, Blue Dream has been selling quality goods at fair prices. We travel far and wide to source our top-shelf vintage clothing and objects. Our mission is to provide fashion and material culture that is recycled or produced in the right way and on a human scale. Our shop supports independent designers and artists, including lots of amazing New Orleans makers.

We believe in brick and mortar for many practical and spiritual reasons: Customers should experience the neighborhood, talk to the people they are supporting, touch the objects, feel the weight of the fabrics, ask questions, smell the smells, and try clothes on – just for fun. We’ve worked to create spaces that invite you to linger and peruse, where you run into friends, and are reminded of why New Orleans is special.

As the Sales Associate, you act as the face of our vintage store, creating memorable customer experiences while maintaining the operational flow that keeps our business running smoothly. This role is ideal for someone passionate about vintage fashion, customer service, and working in a creative retail environment where every day brings new products and opportunities to connect with customers.

Employment Type: Part-Time, hourly

Compensation: $16-$18 + Commission on Sales

Core Responsibilities

Customer Service & Sales (60%)

Greet all customers warmly and assess their needs with genuine curiosity

Provide product knowledge, styling advice, and personalized recommendations

Share stories about vintage eras, designers, and garment details to enhance value

Process transactions accurately using POS system and handle cash/card payments

Suggest complementary items and styling alternatives to enhance purchases

Build rapport with regular customers and remember their preferences

Handle returns, exchanges, and customer concerns following store policies

Answer phone inquiries and provide information about store oﬀerings

Achieve individual sales goals and contribute to team targets

Store Maintenance & Operations (25%)

Maintain store cleanliness, organization, and visual standards throughout shift
Restock items, fold/hang merchandise, and repair displays as needed
Monitor fitting rooms and return merchandise to appropriate locations
Conduct opening and closing procedures as assigned
Organize back-of-house areas and maintain inventory accessibility
Receive deliveries and notify Merchandise Manager of arrivals
Assist with floor moves and merchandising changes as directed
Identify and communicate inventory needs or product issues to management

Team Collaboration & Support (10%)

Participate in monthly team meetings with constructive input
Communicate important information through Slack channels
Support content capture by styling products or assisting with photography
Cross-train in various operational areas to provide flexible coverage
Share customer feedback and market insights with team
Contribute to positive, professional team culture

Learning & Development (5%)

Continuously build product knowledge about vintage eras and fashion history
Stay current on store inventory and new arrivals
Develop styling and customer service skills through training and practice
Seek feedback and implement improvements in performance
Participate in any continuing education opportunities oﬀered

Key Qualifications

Required:

1+ years retail or customer service experience (vintage/fashion retail preferred)
Genuine enthusiasm for vintage clothing and sustainable fashion
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Reliable, punctual, and professional demeanor
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Comfortable with technology (POS systems, basic computer skills)
Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs
Flexible availability including weekends and holidays

Preferred:

Knowledge of fashion history or vintage clothing
Styling or visual merchandising experience
Social media familiarity and content creation interest
Second language skills (Spanish, French, etc.)
Experience in independent retail or small business settings

Success Metrics

Individual sales performance and conversion rate
Customer satisfaction and positive feedback
Attendance and punctuality
Contribution to team goals and collaborative eﬀorts
Product knowledge and styling capability
Adherence to operational standards and procedures

Work Environment

Sales Associates work primarily on the sales floor in a dynamic retail environment. The role requires standing for full shifts, frequent movement around the store, and interaction with diverse customers. The atmosphere is creative and community-oriented, with opportunities to learn about vintage fashion while developing retail and sales skills.

Compensation & Benefits

Position Includes:

Employee discount on store merchandise
Flexible scheduling where possible
Opportunities for professional development and growth
Inclusive, creative work environment
Staﬀ appreciation events and team building

Our Commitment to Staﬀ

We believe in creating a workplace where creativity thrives alongside clear expectations and professional growth. Our team members are empowered with real ownership over their domains, supported with the training and tools they need to succeed, and recognized for their contributions to our collective success.

We value:

Clarity: Clear roles, expectations, and constructive feedback
Growth: Opportunities to develop skills and advance careers
Community: Supportive team environment and positive culture
Creativity: Space for individual expression within our brand aesthetic
Sustainability: Both environmental and work-life sustainability

If you're passionate about vintage fashion, customer experience, and being part of thoughtfully evolving retail business, we'd love to hear from you.

Send a resume and cover letter to: bluedreamneworleans@gmail.com

Blue Dream is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse team that reflects the community we serve.